Mississippi Vacation Planner

2024 Mississippi Visitors Guide

Mississippi is a classic state of the Deep South. The state capital, Jackson, is its largest city. In addition to the State Capitol building, Jackson is also home to many museums, such as the Mississippi Museum of Art, which contains the state’s largest art collection, and the National Agricultural Aviation Museum. The two major cities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast are Biloxi and Gulfport. This area is a Mecca for beach-lovers, gambling enthusiasts and fishermen. The waters of the Gulf of Mexico lap the shore while the lights of moored casinos, such as the Boomtown Casino in Biloxi, sparkle. Numerous fishing trips and charters are available in Biloxi and Gulfport year-round. The University of Mississippi, or Ole Miss as it is fondly nicknamed, is located in Oxford. Also situated in North Mississippi is the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum in Tupelo. Historic Vicksburg lies on the shores of the Mississippi River with many bed and breakfast inns and the Vicksburg National Military Park.

North Mississippi Visitors Guide

Northern Mississippi is bordered on three sides by Arkansas, Tennessee, and Alabama. The area is known for its historic sites, landmarks, and natural attractions. Examples of African and Native American culture throughout Mississippi show a legacy of enduring spirit in the state’s long civil rights battle. A marker on the Mississippi Freedom Trail can be found at the University of Mississippi in Oxford. Corinth’s importance in Civil War history is well documented at its interpretive center and the Crossroads Museum. The Corinth Contraband Camp is a refugee camp that once housed up to 6,000 escaped slaves seeking freedom in the state’s north behind Union lines in 1862. Battlegrounds remain scattered between lavish antebellum homes, the humble birthplace of Elvis Presley and William Faulkner’s former private residence. Visitors can try their luck at the bright casino resorts in Tunica or enjoy the area’s powerful natural beauty. Tunica’s RiverPark features a nature trail, river cruises, and a 48-ft (15-m) river overlook and is also home to the Mississippi River Museum. Ideal day hikes or scenic drives wind through Greenville’s Cypress Preserve and the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Jackson MS Visitors Guide

Jackson, MS is home to some of the top tourist attractions in Mississippi. From historic museums and monuments to parks and more, visitors to the state’s capital city will find plenty of experiences to enjoy during their trip. One must-see attraction is the Old Capitol Museum, housed on the grounds of the old Mississippi State Capitol building. Built in 1839, the museum showcases a rich collection of artifacts detailing the history of the state, from Native American artifacts to Civil War memorabilia.

Also located in the city’s historic downtown area is the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. This highly acclaimed interactive museum examines the long history of civil rights struggles in Mississippi and around the world. Just outside of downtown, visitors can be mesmerized by the beauty of LeFleur’s Bluff State Park. This park spans over 1,000 acres and includes tranquil wetlands, forests, and even a small lake. The nearby Jackson Zoological Park offers another natural escape and is home to many different species of animals from across the globe. With so much to see and explore, it’s no surprise why Jackson is one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting Mississippi.

Biloxi & the Gulf Coast Visitors Guide

The Gulf Coast of Mississippi is popularly referred to as the Playground of the South. With all that Biloxi and the Gulf Coast have to offer, including a temperate year-round climate and 26 miles of white sandy beaches, there is no question about how the area earned its nickname. Recreational opportunities and adventures abound along the coast, ranging from skydiving to golfing, deep-sea fishing, and dinner cruises. Gaming was legalized in Mississippi in 1990, allowing casinos to pop up all over the coast and become a large source of revenue for the area. Both Gulfport and Biloxi have many casinos to offer. The casinos have to be permanently moored on the water to meet state gambling laws that forbid casinos on land. The Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum in Biloxi is dedicated to outlining the effect that the industry has had on the area. The Marine Life Oceanarium in Gulfport offers a Dolphin Interaction Program that allows participants to touch, feed, and interact with the resident dolphins.

Tupelo Visitors Guide

Tupelo, Mississippi, is an upbeat, happy city where people believe they can accomplish anything. Here, a young boy from the wrong side of the tracks got a $7.75 guitar and grew up to be a king. An unconquerable tribe called this place its homeland. A trail over 8,000 years in the making still beckons visitors to slow down and explore. In Tupelo, anything is possible.

Tupelo, Mississippi, holds a special place in the hearts of music enthusiasts and Elvis Presley fans alike. As the birthplace of the legendary King of Rock and Roll, Tupelo offers a unique experience for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant music scene of Mississippi.

Visiting the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum is an absolute must for any music lover. Step into the humble two-room house where Elvis was born in 1935 and gain insight into the early years of his life through fascinating exhibits and memorabilia. Stroll through the picturesque Elvis Presley Park, complete with a statue of the iconic musician and a replica of the church where he first sang publicly.

Tupelo also offers other attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Explore the Tupelo Automobile Museum, home to an impressive collection of classic cars spanning several decades. Take a relaxing stroll through the scenic Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo, where you can encounter beautiful wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.

Biloxi and the Gulf Coast

Biloxi is widely renowned for its thriving casino scene. From the moment you step into one of the luxurious casinos, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of slot machines, cheers from the blackjack tables, and the thrill of high-stakes poker. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just looking for some excitement, Biloxi’s casinos offer endless entertainment options for all.

Biloxi is also home to the beaches of Mississippi, where the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico meet soft, sandy shores. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day under the sun, Biloxi’s beaches have something for everyone. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, build sandcastles with your family, or simply relax and soak up the breathtaking views.

In addition to the casinos, beaches, and seafood, Biloxi and the Gulf Coast have other attractions and activities. Explore the historic Biloxi Lighthouse, visit the fascinating Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum, or take a scenic boat tour to admire the breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Oxford, MS

Oxford, MS is a town that exudes a unique blend of rich literary history and Southern charm. At the center of it all is the iconic University of Mississippi, affectionately known as Ole Miss. This prestigious institution not only boasts a world-class education but also serves as a hub for literary enthusiasts. Strolling through the campus, you can’t help but feel the echoes of the past, where literary giants such as William Faulkner, John Grisham, and countless others honed their craft.

The charming town of Oxford beckons with its charming streets lined with quaint bookstores, inviting cafes, and vibrant art galleries. Take a leisurely stroll down the historic Square, where the hustle and bustle of life seem to slow down, allowing you to appreciate the small-town charm and hospitality that defines the essence of Mississippi.

Indulge in the local cuisine that ranges from mouthwatering Southern delicacies to innovative fusion dishes that reflect the evolving culinary scene. From cozy diners to upscale restaurants, Oxford offers a tantalizing array of dining options that will ignite your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Vicksburg, MS Visitors Guide

The Mississippi River has played an important role in the history of Vicksburg and continues to be an important draw for locals and visitors alike. During the Civil War, Union troops fought a protracted siege to wrest control of this strategic point from the Confederacy. The Union victory at Vicksburg became one of the turning points of the war and today visitors can explore the history of the battle at the Vicksburg National Military Park, which hosts over 1,300 monuments as well as the remains of an actual Civil War-era gunboat, the U.S.S. Cairo. Those looking to experience the Mississippi River for themselves can take a tour on a riverboat and view the public riverfront murals along the Yazoo Diversion Canal. After exploring the area attractions, Vicksburg is just minutes away from the great Mississippi outdoors, including camping, golfing and recreational activities.